African Americans Caregiving During COVID-19

ABSTRACT The Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused global distress, and communities of color are disproportionately adversely affected. Within this group, many caregivers are concerned about issues such as staying healthy, keeping the family well, paying bills, and caring for children who are housebound. The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the challenges facing caregivers, the manner in which systemic discrepancies have impacted African American caregivers, and how COVID-19 responses have exacerbated pre-existing issues. To do this, we administered semi-structured interviews to caregivers residing in California, Georgia, Maryland, Indiana, Alabama, and New York regarding their experiences caregiving during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were then analyzed using grounded theory and content analysis. The results indicate an increase in subjective mental health symptomology, stressors associated with social isolation, and compounded stress due to civil unrest during the COVID-19 pandemic. Practical solutions for practitioners and caregivers are provided based on study findings. In addition, the authors of this study wish to bring awareness to the societal and systemic issues that adversely impact this population.